I want to thank all those who reached out to
me and those who spoke out at the last couple of Town Hall Meetings, regarding
the Temporary Emergency Homeless Shelter project we are considering. Many
concerns and expectations have been expressed, and it has become obvious that
to move forward with this project will be a complex venture.

With that said, should the congregation
approve moving forward with this project, a committee will be formed and tasked
with negotiating an agreement with the city and the service provider that
addresses the concerns voiced by the congregation and minimizes the liability
to the church. A core group of people have been identified to serve on this
committee. A wish list of points that need to be included with this agreement
have already been established. These points include (but are not limited to)
improved lighting in our parking lot; a market-value lease payment for the use
of the property; annual review and adjustments to the agreement; designated
point-persons for working out issues that may arise during the course of this
project; a net increase in parking spaces. The committee will always be open to
congregational input. For those who wish to send their thoughts,
recommendations, or concerns directly to this committee, they can email them at
negotiators@nilesdiscoverychurch.org.

In an effort to maintain full transparency, I
have set up a forum on our website so that everyone can follow the progress of
the committee. People can provide feedback and recommendations here during this
process as well. I will be updating this forum as new information is provided.
The forum is located at: https://www.nilesdiscoverychurch.org/emergencyshelter.